Every morning, Tan, a 32-year-old health coach, starts his day with a 25-minute ice bath to build strength and endurance. The first few seconds feel like needles are stabbing him, causing a sharp, numbing pain. But Tan uses breathing techniques to control and gradually get used to the cold. Afterwards, he feels refreshed and energized. For Tan, facing the most unpleasant things first makes the rest of the day more pleasant.
On the other hand, Thanh Hang, a 31-year-old real estate consultant from Hanoi, also takes ice baths in the morning to relieve stress and increase excitement. Intensely driven by work pressure, Hang’s friends suggested this method to help reduce stress. She slowly adapts to the cold water temperature by starting from her feet and gradually covering her entire body. Utilizing breathing techniques like inhaling for 7 seconds, holding for 2 seconds, and exhaling for 7 seconds helps Hang endure the challenge for the full 25 minutes. She finds that by overcoming the initial cold feeling, her body becomes alert and energized.
Ice bathing has become a popular method for relieving stress and improving mood. Wim Hof, known as the Ice Man, believes in the benefits of cold exposure, proper breathing, and mindset to improve overall health. Starting the day with a 30-second cold shower can stimulate blood circulation, boost the immune system and elevate mood.
Regular ice baths can develop mental fortitude and improve endurance. However it carries risks if not done correctly especially for certain groups like those with weakened immunity or underlying health conditions.
Incorporating gentle habits while bathing such as using a soft loofah to increase lymphatic activity or massaging scalp to stimulate collagen production can enhance overall benefits of ice bathing.
For beginners it is recommended to gradually transition into colder baths to avoid adverse effects. By focusing on breathing and starting slow individuals can maximize benefits of ice bathing while minimizing risks.